Joining a photo competition is an intriguing experience that perhaps tests your passion. It does not matter if you have been around the block or are an amateur; that rush of displaying your works, having them scrutinized by professionals is beyond comparison. Worthwhile still is the exposure, offered critiques, and sometimes prizes. Now as we look toward, some competitions are making waves in the photography community. In this selection of the best for the upcoming year, keep updating your portfolios and honing your competitive edge.
Sony World Photography Awards
Where the Sony World Photography Awards are concerned, it is among the most prestigious competitions in photographic arts. Initiated in 2007, the contest has drawn talent from all over the world. Chasingupon innovation, creativity, and storytelling, it accepts entries in various areas, such as professional, open, and student photography.
Why Should I Apply?
This contest is a phenomenal opportunity for any photographer to prove his or her skills on the world stage. Winners get cash prizes, besides the opportunity to have their work exhibited across some major cities.
Important Dates
- Submissions: Opening in early January and closing mid-January
- Winners Announced: In April
Categories
- Professional: Portrait, architecture, still life, etc.
- Open: Travel, nature, people, etc.
National Geographic Photo Contest
Having always been seen as a marathon for extreme photography, the National Geographic Photo Contest is a producer for those keen on being recognized as leaders in visual arts. Known for its long tradition of depicting beautiful moments in nature, science, and culture, the National Geographic Photo Contest offers photographers interested in documenting the environment with a wonderful opportunity.
Why Enter?
National Geographic offers a cash prize and exposure to millions, whether through their print magazine, social media, or website.
Key Dates
- Submission: Mid-September
- Winners announcement: December
Categories
- Nature: Wildlife and natural landscapes
- People: Cultural photography that provides extraordinary human narratives
- Places: Photographs taken in the locations showcasing their fine beauty
International Photography Awards (IPA)
One of the biggest photography contests worldwide is offered by IPA, having categories that range from fine art to commercial photography. Since its inception in 2004, the Festival has given photographers of all levels the opportunity to display their work to the world. The IPA also brings in high-profile jurors, rendering the event unique in the offerings of feedback and recognition.
Why Participate?
Besides the money, winners and runners-up get the chance to have their works shown in some important galleries, including the Louvre in Paris. This is good exposure for your professional career.
Important Dates
- Submission period: March-May
- Award announcement: October
Categories
- Fine Art
- Architecture
- Fashion
- Editorial/Photojournalism
The Mobile Photography Awards
With the rise in camera quality, mobile photography has heightened in prominence and patronage. The Mobile Photography Awards allows mobile photographers the opportunity to showcase their skills. Uniquely positioned within the industry, it encourages people to employ the medium for a kind of creative work that feels personal and accessible.
Why Enter?
MPA is the most respected institution for mobile photography, meaning every photographer passionate about proving that great pictures do not necessarily require a DSLR or a mirrorless camera should participate. The different categories are offered so that everyone has a space.
Key Dates
- Submission start: February
- Submission end: July
- Winners announced: October
Categories
- People
- Nature
- Travel
- Abstract
International Landscape Photographer of the Year
If you love portraying the raw beauty of nature, then the International Landscape Photographer of the Year is the right contest for you. Designated for landscape photography, photographers from around the world present their beautiful sights. The majestic natural views are indeed worth being immortalized.
Why Enter?
It is more than just making pictures of scenic vistas. It's about touching meaningfully the land through expression and presenting a worthy visual story. The winners sometimes find themselves very publicized on huge photography magazines and web pages throughout the world.
Key Dates
- Submission: Opens in January, closes in October
- Announcement of winners: In November
Categories
- Landscape Photography
- Black & White Landscape
- Nature/Environmental Impact Photography
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Producing the guest of honor, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition has become, thanks to its victorious participants, the doyenne of wildlife photographers. It presents the most compelling wildlife stories in all modes from animals in close portrait to single sweeping panoramas on a landscape.
Why Enter?
Winners have a once-in-lifetime opportunity to exhibit their work in a high-profile exhibition at the Natural History Museum in London and enjoy great media exposure. The prizes also include a cash award and professional gear.
Important Dates
- Submissions Close: Mid-February
- Winners Announced: October
Categories
- Wildlife Photographer of the Year
- Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year
- Underwater and Ocean Photography
Aerial Photography Awards
With the advent of drone photography, the days of several aerial shots have come along. Aerial Photography Awards recognize the best photographs taken from the skies. From expansive cityscapes to the majestic vastness of nature, this competition opens the field for photographers to display their works from such perspectives.
Why Enter?
The winning photographs receive great media attention, getting featured in many well-publicized articles. This contest aims to promote the concept of drone photography as an art form.
Key Dates
- Submissions Open: May
- Closing Date for Entries: September
- Winners Announced: November
Categories
- Urban & Architecture
- Nature & Wildlife
- Abstract & Artistic Aerials
LensCulture Exposure Awards
The LensCulture Exposure Awards highlight the remarkable ingenuity of photographers in their creative work. Spanning from documentary to conceptual photography, this competition makes it possible for both young photographers and established artists to be known by prominent art institutions and curators worldwide.
Why Enter?
The contest also offers much prize money, and winners get to partake in curated shows both online and in person. This kind of exposure can lead to collaborations, exhibitions, and coverage by the world's top-tier media houses.
Important Dates
- Accepting submissions: Opens February, closes in April
- Announcement of Winners: June
Categories
- Documentary Photography
- Fine Art Photography
- Street Photography
- Portraits
Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards
There are occasions when laughter is the best picture, as opposed to solemn, dramatic scenes. The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards bring out the light-hearted side of nature. From strange animal antics to funny facial expressions, this competition is essentially a carnival in the art of photography.
Why Enter?
This lighthearted contest is ideal for photographers who enjoy capturing humor in wildlife situations. It caters to amateur photographers, providing them a platform for exposure and visibility.
Key Dates
- Submissions: open for entries in March and close in September
- Winners declared: November
Categories
- Overall Winner
- Best Portfolio
- Junior Category (under 16)
Year Full of Opportunities for Photographers
These are just some of the opportunities in the full-packed photo contest landscape that allows photographers to present their work, gain recognition, and win worthwhile prizes. From documentary, wildlife, and landscapes to mobile photography, there is a competition for every type of photography. Mark your calendars and plan your submissions well. After all, every entry you submit can be your next break into the world of photography.